“Daniel Farke Left Perplexed as Referee Opts Against Second Yellow for Preston’s Ben Whiteman in Leeds United Clash”
Daniel Farke was left scratching his head on Saturday afternoon after referee John Busby decided not to show Preston North End captain Ben Whiteman a second yellow card during Leeds United’s clash with the Lilywhites.
Whiteman had already gone into the book in the 32nd minute for pulling back Brenden Aaronson, who showcased his trademark skill by turning Whiteman expertly on the half-turn, forcing the Preston midfielder into committing a cynical foul.
Despite the clear warning and Leeds’ growing pressure, Whiteman was fortunate to escape further punishment after a series of questionable challenges throughout the match. Farke’s frustration was evident, with the Leeds boss left wondering how the referee managed to keep the Preston man on the pitch as tensions simmered at a crucial point in the game.
The incident sparked debate among fans and pundits, with many feeling Whiteman should have seen red for his repeated infringements. For Farke and Leeds United, it was another moment of officiating that could have significantly altered the course of the match.
“Referee Under Fire as Ben Whiteman Escapes Red Card After Reckless Challenge in Leeds United Clash”
Just five minutes after being booked, Ben Whiteman caused controversy again with a reckless challenge on Jayden Bogle at the edge of the area. While Whiteman got a touch on the ball, his follow-through was studs-up and dangerous, leaving many stunned as referee John Busby opted not to even show a yellow card.
Tony Dorigo, providing commentary, was visibly shocked by Busby’s decision, calling it a moment of leniency that could have cost Leeds United dearly. Meanwhile, Preston manager Paul Heckingbottom appeared to acknowledge Whiteman’s fortune by substituting his captain at half-time, perhaps aware that the midfielder was on thin ice.
Now, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has weighed in on the incident, adding his voice to the growing debate about whether Whiteman deserved to be sent off. For Leeds United and Daniel Farke, it was another refereeing decision that left them frustrated on a day where the officials came under scrutiny.
“Dermot Gallagher Delivers Verdict: Ben Whiteman ‘Had to Go’ After Reckless Challenge Against Leeds United”
Dermot Gallagher has weighed in on the controversial Ben Whiteman incident during Leeds United’s draw with Preston North End, insisting the Preston captain should have been sent off for his reckless lunge on Jayden Bogle.
Speaking on Ref Watch on Sky Sports on Monday, Gallagher was clear in his assessment: whether it was a second yellow card or a straight red, Whiteman should have been dismissed.
“The only certainty here is that one way or another, the player has got to leave the field,” Gallagher explained. “That’s a red card in itself. The referee felt he didn’t catch him, but I think he does. I think he misreads it. He’s got to be sent off.”
While Leeds salvaged a late equaliser in injury time, the decision not to send Whiteman off could have been pivotal. With Preston down to 10 men, Daniel Farke’s side may have found the winner to claim all three points. Instead, the referee’s strange call left Leeds fans and pundits alike frustrated, with Gallagher’s verdict only adding fuel to the debate.
“Leeds United’s Away Woes Continue as Another Opponent Escapes Red Card – Guilavogui Demands Improvement”
Leeds United’s struggles on the road continued against Preston North End, with yet another contentious refereeing decision overshadowing the match. Ben Whiteman’s reckless challenge on Jayden Bogle should have seen the Preston captain dismissed, but referee John Busby opted to keep his cards in his pocket, much to the frustration of Daniel Farke and Leeds fans.
This isn’t the first time an opposing player has avoided what seemed like a clear red card against Leeds this season, adding to their frustrations away from Elland Road. Leeds’ away form remains a concern, with just three wins from 10 matches on the road, alongside five draws and two defeats.
Midfielder Josuha Guilavogui has acknowledged the issue, urging his teammates to improve their performances on the road if they are to secure promotion this season. Leeds must find a way to turn these tricky away fixtures into victories, particularly when refereeing decisions go against them.
“Leeds United Left Frustrated by Unpunished Red Cards as Promotion Hopes Take a Hit”
Leeds United’s push for promotion has been hampered by a string of controversial refereeing decisions, with two clear red card incidents going unpunished in recent weeks.
In the latest case, Preston’s Ben Whiteman avoided a sending-off for a reckless lunge on Jayden Bogle, a decision former referee Dermot Gallagher believes was a mistake. Just weeks prior, Leeds suffered again when Junior Firpo was on the receiving end of a brutal challenge from Blackburn’s Tyrhys Dolan — a game which saw John Eustace record his third consecutive win over Daniel Farke. Gallagher also weighed in on Ref Watch, stating Dolan should have seen red for his dangerous tackle.
These decisions have left Leeds feeling hard done by, as key moments continue to go against them. With only three wins in 10 away games and sitting three points behind the league leaders, Leeds’ promotion bid has taken an avoidable hit. Daniel Farke’s side now face an uphill battle to turn luck and results around as the margins tighten at the top of the table.